At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product development and manage supplier relationships in a fast-paced retail environment.
- Company: PrettyLittleThing, a brand embracing modern sophistication and quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a vibrant team culture.
- Why this job: Join a rebranded fashion movement and make a real impact on product innovation.
- Qualifications: 5+ years of buying experience, strong analytical and negotiation skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and creativity in the fashion industry.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A legacy in progress...Say hello to a new era of modern sophistication. PrettyLittleThing has undergone a rebrand, shaping a brand that celebrates both heritage and evolution. Fashion is all about reinvention, and at PLT we are proving that style is more than just what you wear, it’s a statement. We are stepping away from being a fast fashion brand, and pivoting towards giving customers premium quality product and design. Are you ready to join our movement?
THE ROLE
This role is a fixed term contract for 12 months, based in our Manchester office 5 days per week. As a Buyer you will support the Head of Buying in implementing and delivering category plans including range reviews, promotional pricing and stock that are consistent with overall commercial strategy and financial objectives. You will support the junior members in your team with their own career development, as well as keeping them motivated towards the business’ strategy.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
- Takes accountability for the day to day running of their department.
- Uses leadership skills to support and motivate the team.
- Takes accountability for driving the department's KPIs to ensure strategy is met.
- Trade: Understands all weekly and daily trade reports and trades category daily. Reacts to weekly competitors’ activity on the back of comp shops presented by the teams. Takes accountability for reviewing department KPI's on a weekly basis. Ensures that spend is in the right place, making sure there is enough newness to deliver full ranges. Ensures all best sellers and new reactions have been rebought and if not in stock making sure the team are chasing in as priority.
- Creative: Owns department's product development. Works with design team to ensure they are translating trends to be department relevant. Works with creative teams on any department specific campaigns.
- Sage: Takes accountability for ensuring team has a strong understanding of sage.
- Sign off: Leads sign off selection with Head of Buying. Presents in sign off meetings.
- Product Development: Lead product development for the category/categories. Leads the sourcing of category fabrics- compositions, weights and prices. Leads meetings with designer on both short lead and long lead times products. Ensures product development is briefed to correct supplier so the right product is in the right place. Ensures regular build/rack ups are in the diary.
- Supplier Management: Leads weekly supplier meetings as well as monthly/annual trips. Addresses any pressing issues with regards to critical path and capacity. Works with the supplier to ensure correct fabrics and blocks are sourced to meet target prices. Oversees the management of cost price negotiations. Ensures OPO is managed effectively by BAA and Assistant Buyer. Understands category COO mix by supplier. Works with sourcing to onboard suitable new suppliers. Completes cross costing exercises with clear outcomes.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
- Minimum 5 years' experience as a buyer in a retail environment.
- Strong analytical skills.
- Strong commercial awareness and creative skills to drive product ranges.
- Proven negotiation skills.
- Decisive and able to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong communication, analytical and organizational skills.
- Ability to delegate tasks and priorities within delegated tasks to manage deadlines.
- Practice excellent time management skills and ability to cope under pressure.
WHY JOIN US
2025 is a year for making bold moves, delivering real results, and driving forward with unstoppable momentum. If that excites you, then you belong at Debenhams Group. Let’s lead the change together.
Buyer FTC in Manchester employer: Debenhams Group
Contact Detail:
Debenhams Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer FTC in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent developments. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their vision and how you can contribute to it.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Buyer role at PrettyLittleThing. Highlight your experience, skills, and how you align with their new direction towards premium quality.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer FTC in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Fashion: When you're writing your application, let your love for fashion shine through! Talk about what inspires you and how you see yourself contributing to PrettyLittleThing's bold new vision. We want to see that you're not just a buyer, but someone who lives and breathes style.
Highlight Your Experience: Make sure to detail your relevant experience as a buyer in retail. We’re looking for at least 5 years, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements and how you've driven product ranges in the past. Use specific examples to demonstrate your analytical and negotiation skills!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points if necessary, and make sure to highlight your key skills and experiences that align with the role. Remember, we want to get to know you quickly!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures it gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our movement at PrettyLittleThing. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Debenhams Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Buyer, you'll need to demonstrate strong analytical skills. Brush up on key metrics related to buying and stock management. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
PrettyLittleThing is all about modern sophistication and reinvention. Prepare examples of how you've contributed to product development or creative campaigns in the past. Highlight your ability to translate trends into relevant products.
✨Master the Art of Negotiation
Proven negotiation skills are crucial for this role. Think of specific instances where you've successfully negotiated with suppliers or stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss your approach and the outcomes of those negotiations.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
You'll be supporting junior team members, so it's important to showcase your leadership skills. Share experiences where you've motivated a team or helped others develop their careers. This will show that you're not just a buyer, but also a mentor.